Former Pakistan bowler Wasim Akram lashed out at the Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, especially on the inclusion of pacer-all-rounder Faheem Ashraf. Akram seemed quite displeased with the selection, indicating Ahraf's recent performances. In the press conference during ILT20 2025, Akram said, "I have seen the squad announced by Pakistan but not properly. A couple of selections, for instance, Faheem Ashraf has been included in the team. I wish him all the best. He is a talented cricketer but in last 20 games, his bowling average is 100 and the batting average is 9. He just came out of the blue along with Khushdil." Comparing with India's squad, Akram pointed out that Pakistan will have just one proper spinner, Abrar Ahmed, while India has four of them. With that, Pakistan has a high chance of enduring pressure in their home ground. Moreover, he advocated for Aamer Jamal, who could have been a good option in place of Ashraf. "Our fast bowlers are all good. Talking about all-rounders, if you have to invest in someone for long-term, it should have been Aamer Jamal who is not in the squad. I hope there is a mindset behind the decision. I am just talking about the team I saw on social media." Jamal has played three ODIs, claiming three wickets at 28.33. In List A, he has 307 runs and 56 wickets at averages of 12.28 and 29.33, with an economy rate of 6.68. Read also: Ashwin Defends Ranji Trophy, Critiques Hype Around Kohli's Return Pakistan's squad for the Champions Trophy The PCB was the last to announce its squad for the upcoming tournaments. Mohammad Rizwan will lead, with Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain. Young batsman Saim Ayub is missing due to injury, while Fakhar Zaman, a member of the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning team, is included. The same squad will play in the tri-nation tournament starting February 8. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, returning after eight years, will take place in Pakistan on February 19, with the host nation aiming to defend its title against the world’s top teams. PCB also revealed the full support staff for the series and tournament. Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.